Prevalence of obesity in a group of medical students at the CMUL, Lagos in 2013
Date
2013-11
Authors
Fasanmade, O.A
Iwuala, S.O
Fasanmade, O.O
Lawal, T
Odeniyi, I.A
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists, Nigeria Chapter
Abstract
Background
Obesity is assuming epidemic proportions worldwide, with westernized nations having the highest rates. unfortunately developing countries which were burdened with malnutrition are also catching up on the increased prevalence of overweight/obesity seen in the western world.
Aims and Objectives
This study examined anthropometric indices and the prevalence of overweight and obesity amongst medical students, with an attempt to compare with a group of students in the same institution 7 years earlier by one of our authors.
Methods
Medical students rotating through the department of medicine were recruited after informed consent. Biodata and anthropometric indices were recorded and the data analysed
Results
101 students consented to participate in the study. They were aged 19 – 32 years, 37 were females. Mean age 22.11 + 2.44 years, weight 65.98 + 9.89 kg, height 1.71 + 0.09m and BMI 22.49 + 2.70kg/m2. The mean waist circumference was 75.64 + 8.77cm. Of the students 2 were obese and 13 overweight. Thus 85% had normal weights.
Discussion
Obesity and overweight though not common in developing countries like Nigeria is increasing steadily and this is what is fueling the increased DM prevalence seen in this region. The study conducted by Lawal T et al (unpublished) in a similar group of students in the same institution of similar age had majority of the subjects within the normal range of BMI(75.8%), 9.6% were overweight and 2.5% were obese. This represents a possibly rising pattern. All obese patients in that study were in the mild category similar to this.
Conclusion
The rising tide of overweight/obesity needs to be tackled early in life and studies to identify causes of youth overweight/obesity and measures taken to stem these changes.
Description
Staff Publications
Keywords
Obesity , Students , Nigerians , Prevalence , Research Subject Categories::MEDICINE
Citation
Fasanmade OA, Iwuala SO, Fasanmade OO, Lawal T, Odeniyi IA. Prevalence of obesity in a group of medical students at the CMUL, Lagos. Abstract, 5th Annual congress of AACE Nigeria, 2013